How Do Trains Switch to a Different Voltage?
In this video, I show you how a high-speed train switches from one voltage system to another when moving from a conventional railway line to a high-speed line.
At this specific location, there is a clearly marked changeover point where the electrical system changes. As the train approaches, it lowers its pantograph and coasts through the section without drawing power. Once the train has completely passed the changeover point and it is safe to do so, the pantograph is raised again and the train continues under the new voltage system.
I filmed the process from two different spots so you can clearly see how the voltage change happens in real time.
If you’re interested in railways, infrastructure, or how high-speed trains operate behind the scenes, this video gives you a closer look at a moment most passengers never notice.
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Filmed in Februari 2026
Highlights:
Eurostar
IC train: Eupen - Ostend
IC train: Welkenraedt - Kortrijk
ICE3 velaro
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